Epidemiological and clinical features of measles on the example of an outbreak in the Penza region

Abstract

Currently, many countries around the world, including Russia, are experiencing an increase in measles morbidity. One of the reasons for this rise is a decrease in the number of vaccinated persons and violation of vaccination schemes. Aim of the study was to investigate of epidemiologic and clinical features of the disease during the measles outbreak in Penza Oblast in 2023. Material and Methods. A retrospective analysis of 73 medical records of patients during the outbreak of the disease in the village of Srednaya Elyuzan, Penza region, in 2023 was performed. The diagnosis was confirmed by detection of specific marker (IgM) in the blood by ELISA. Results and discussion. There were 67 children and 6 adults among those who fell ill. Outpatient treatment was provided to 36 persons, and 37 children were hospitalized. Among the children who contracted measles, 63 children were not immunized against measles, 59 of them due to parents’ refusal to immunize them. In all patients, measles was characterized by typical clinical manifestations. Moderate forms of the disease were detected in 43 children and 6 adults (67.1 %), mild – in 24 (32.9 %) children. Conclusions. A characteristic feature of this disease was the presence of more pronounced symptoms and a longer catarrhal period in older children. Thanks to timely preventive and anti-epidemiological measures, the outbreak was localized and further spread of the infection was prevented. Given the repeated possibility of outbreaks, it is necessary to improve vaccine prevention.